Air Fryer Onion Bhaji

Onion Bhaji, a beloved Indian snack, has been cherished for its crispy texture and rich flavours. Traditionally deep-fried, this dish is now reimagined to be both healthier and more accessible for those with dietary restrictions, particularly diabetics. Enter the Air Fryer Onion Bhaji, a modern twist on the classic that offers all the taste with none of the guilt.

The magic of Air Fryer Onion Bhaji lies in its thoughtful ingredients and the method of preparation. Gram flour (chickpea flour), a staple in Indian cuisine, forms the base of this dish. It’s not only gluten-free but also has a low glycemic index, making it an excellent choice for those managing blood sugar levels. When combined with spices like garam masala, paprika, and fennel seeds, the result is a flavourful batter that infuses the bhajis with warmth and complexity.

Onions are the star of the show, providing the crunch and sweetness that define this dish. Onions are also low in carbohydrates, which means they won’t cause a spike in blood sugar. Their natural sweetness is complemented by the addition of grated carrot, which adds colour, texture, and a subtle earthiness to the bhajis. Fresh coriander, a staple herb in Indian cooking, lends a bright and citrusy note that balances the richness of the spices.

What sets this version apart is the use of an air fryer, a kitchen appliance that has revolutionized healthy cooking. By circulating hot air around the food, the air fryer achieves a crispy exterior similar to deep-frying but with significantly less oil. In fact, this recipe uses just a light spray of low-calorie cooking spray, reducing the fat content without compromising on taste.

For diabetics, managing blood sugar levels while enjoying flavourful food can be a challenge. The Air Fryer Onion Bhaji addresses this by offering a dish that is both satisfying and safe. The gram flour, spices, and vegetables provide a balance of protein, fibre, and flavour, helping to keep blood sugar stable while satisfying cravings for something crispy and savoury.

Moreover, this dish is incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed as a snack, an appetizer, or even as part of a larger meal. Pair it with a side of yogurt dip or a fresh salad to enhance its nutritional profile. The lightness of the air-fried bhajis means they won’t leave you feeling heavy, making them an excellent choice for any time of the day.

The Air Fryer Onion Bhaji is a delightful fusion of tradition and health-conscious cooking. It proves that with a few simple adjustments, classic dishes can be enjoyed by everyone, including those managing diabetes. So, whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or simply looking for a tasty and healthy snack, this dish is sure to become a favourite in your kitchen.

Air Fryer Onion Bhaji

Air Fryer Onion Bhaji is a healthier, air-fried version of the classic Indian snack, made with gram flour, spices, and vegetables, offering a delicious and diabetic-friendly option. This dish retains its crispy texture and rich flavours while using minimal oil, making it a satisfying yet guilt-free treat.

4.95 from 34 votes

Print Facebook Pinterest Twitter Add to CollectionCollections

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Indian

Keyword: Air Fry, Diabetic, Spice, Vegetables, Vegetarian

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes minutes

Resting: 5 minutes minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes minutes

Servings: 10 Bhajis

Calories: 31kcal

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

 

MetricImperial

Bhaji Ingredients:

• 50 g gram flour
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp fennel seeds lightly crushed (optional)
• 1 large onion quartered and thinly sliced
• 1 large carrot coarsely grated
• 1/4 bunch fresh coriander finely chopped
• 1 spray Low-calorie cooking spray

Dip Ingredients:

• 250 g soya yogurt plain unsweetened or see tip
• 1/3 bunch fresh mint plus extra and a few whole leaves to serve
• 1 medium green chilli deseeded and finely chopped

Instructions

• Put the flour, garam masala, paprika, fennel seeds, if using, and a little pepper in a large bowl. Add the onion, carrot and coriander and mix well. Stir in 3 tbsp cold water (add 1-2 tbsp more if needed) and leave to stand for 5 minutes.
  50 g gram flour, 1 tsp garam masala, ½ tsp paprika, ½ tsp fennel seeds, 1 large onion, 1 large carrot, 1/4 bunch fresh coriander
• Preheat your air fryer to 180°C.
• Divide the mixture into 10 even portions, then squidge each of them into a small rugby-ball shape. Spray the bhajis with low-calorie cooking spray, then put 5 of them in your air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and firm. Transfer to a hot plate, cover with foil and keep warm while you cook for remaining bhajis. When the second batch is done, you can turn the heat down to low and put the first batch back in for 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  1 spray Low-calorie cooking spray
• While the bhajis are cooking, mix the dip ingredients together. Serve the bhajis with the dip and scatter the extra chopped mint and leaves over everything.
  250 g soya yogurt, 1/3 bunch fresh mint, 1 medium green chilli
• To oven cook: Cook the bhajis on a non-stick baking tray at 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6 for 10-15 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

Notes

Recipe tips:
This recipe was tested in a 4.3-litre air fryer. If yours is bigger, you might be able to cook all of the bhajis at the same time.

If you don’t need these to be vegan, swap the soya yogurt for fat-free natural Greek yogurt.

This recipe makes 10 bhajis. Enjoy a couple as a starter or serve as a side dish to a curry.

Nutrition

Calories: 31kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.4g | Saturated Fat: 0.04g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 24mg | Potassium: 93mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1274IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 0.3mg